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MSAsafety.com
Operating Manual
ALTAIR
®
5X PID
Multigas Detector
Order No.: 10165710/02
CR 800000039893
1000 Cranberry Woods Drive
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
USA
Phone 1-800-MSA-2222
Fax 1-800-967-0398
For your local MSA contacts please go to our website www.MSAsafety.com
©
MSA 2020. All rights reserved
WARNING!
Read this manual carefully before using the device. The device will perform as designed only if it is
used and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction. Otherwise, it could fail to
perform as designed and persons who rely on this device for their safety could sustain serious personal
injury or death.
It is imperative that this operating manual be read and observed when using the product. In particular,
the safety instructions, as well as the information for the use and operation of the product, must be
carefully read and observed. Furthermore, the national regulations applicable in the user's country
must be taken into account for safe use.
Alternative use, or use outside this specification will be considered as non-compliance. This also
applies especially to unauthorized alterations to the product and to commissioning work that has not
been carried out by MSA or authorized persons.
See ALTAIR 5X PID CD or visit MSAsafety.com for the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) information
(#1000006537).
This product incorporates Bluetooth
®
wireless technology.
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any
use of such marks by MSA is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their
respective owners.
ALTAIR
®
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3
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Contents
1 Safety Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.1 Correct Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 Liability Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.3 Safety and Precautionary Measures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2 PID Theory and Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
3 Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2 Device Hardware Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.3 Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.4 On-Screen Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.5 Viewing Additional Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.6 Sensor Missing Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3.7 Monitoring Toxic Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3.8 Monitoring Oxygen Concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
3.9 Monitoring Combustible Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
3.10 Monitoring VOC Gases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.11 Displaying Current Response Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.1 Environmental Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.2 Turning ON and Fresh Air Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Fresh Air Setup (FAS) at device Turn-ON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
4.3 Special Consideration for Oxygen Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
4.4 Measurement Mode [Normal Operation]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
4.5 Device Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Calibration Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Alarm Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Instrument Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
4.6 Bluetooth Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
4.7 MSA Link Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
4.8 Function Tests on the Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
4.9 Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
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4.10 Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Zero Calibration Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Span Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Finishing Successful Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
4.11 Time of Day Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
4.12 Device Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
5 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
5.1 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
5.2 Verifying Pump Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
5.3 Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
5.4 Maintenance Procedure - Replacing or Adding a Sensor. . . . . . . . . 52
5.5 Replacing the Pump Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
5.6 Cleaning the Device Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
5.7 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
5.8 Shipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
5.9 PID Sensor Cleaning and Maintenance Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6 Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
6.1 Factory-set Alarm Thresholds and Setpoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
6.2 Performance Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
6.3 Calibration Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
6.4 Combustible Gas Cross Reference Factors for General-Purpose
Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
7 Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
7.1 Marking, Certificates and Approvals According to the Directive
2014/34/EU (ATEX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
7.2 Marking, Certificates and Approvals According to IECEx . . . . . . . . . 66
8 XCell Sensor Patents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
9 Ordering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
9.1 US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
9.2 Outside US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
9.3 Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
10 PID Response Factor Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
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11 Flow Charts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
11.1 Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
11.2 Bump Test/ Informational Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
11.3 Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
11.4 Calibrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
11.5 Calibration Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
11.6 Alarm Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
11.7 Sensor Alarm Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
11.8 Instrument Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
11.9 Sensor Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
11.10 VOC Gas Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
12 Changeable Feature Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
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Safety Regulations
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1 Safety Regulations
1.1 Correct Use
The ALTAIR 5X PID Multigas Detector, hereafter also referred to as device, is for use by trained and
qualified personnel. The device is designed to be used when performing a hazard assessment to:
• Assess potential worker exposure to combustible and toxic gases and vapors as well as low level
of oxygen.
• Determine the appropriate gas and vapor monitoring needed for a workplace.
The ALTAIR 5X PID Multigas Detector can be equipped to detect:
• Combustible gases and certain combustible vapors.
• Volatile organic compounds (VOC).
• Oxygen-deficient or oxygen-rich atmospheres.
• Specific toxic gases for which a sensor is installed.
• CSA only: While the device can detect up to 30 % oxygen in ambient air, it is approved for use
only up to 21 % oxygen.
Outside the US: Oxygen for monitoring inertization applications. The device is suitable and certified for
the measurement of the oxygen concentration in gas mixtures for inertization according toEN 50104
but without alarm function.
WARNING!
Perform a blocked flow test before each day's use.
It is recommended that a Bump Test is performed before each day's use; adjust if necessary.
Perform a Bump Test more frequently if exposed to silicone, silicates, lead-containing compounds,
hydrogen sulfide, or high contaminant levels.
Recheck calibration if unit is subjected to physical shock.
Use only to detect gases/vapors for which a sensor is installed.
Do not use to detect combustible dusts or mists.
For accurate catalytic combustible readings, make sure adequate oxygen is present
(>10 % O
2
).
Never block pump inlet, except to perform a sampling system safety test.Have a trained and qual-
ified person interpret device readings.Risk of Explosion: Do not remove battery pack or recharge
Li Ion battery in a hazardous location.Do not alter or modify device.
Use only MSA-approved sampling lines.
Do not use silicone tubing or sampling lines.
Wait sufficient time for the reading; response times vary based on gas and length of sampling line.
Properly identify the VOC gas being measured before using VOC response factors or setting
alarm values (exposures, STEL, TWA)
Recognize that the VOC display readings are in increments of 0.1ppm from 0-999 ppm, then
1 ppm increments from 1000-2000 ppm with a Response Factor of one for the 0-2000 ppm PID
sensor.
Ensure installed PID lamp corresponds to the PID lamp setting on the display shown at startup.
Incorrect use can cause death or serious personal injury.
It is imperative that this operating manual be read and observed when using the product. In particular,
the safety instructions, as well as the information for the use and operation of the product, must be
ALTAIR
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5X PID
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Safety Regulations
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carefully read and observed. Furthermore, the national regulations applicable in the user's country
must be taken into account for safe use.
Alternative use, or use outside this specification will be considered as non-compliance. This also
applies especially to unauthorized alterations to the product and to commissioning work that has not
been carried out by MSA or authorized persons.
1.2 Liability Information
MSA accepts no liability in cases where the product has been used inappropriately or not as intended.
The selection and use of this product must be under the direction of a qualified safety professional who
has carefully evaluated the specific hazards of the jobsite where it will be used and who is completely
familiar with the product and its limitations. The selection and use of this product and its incorporation
into the safety scheme of the jobsite is the exclusive responsibility of the employer.
Product liability claims, warranties also as guarantees made by MSA with respect to the product are
voided, if it is not used, serviced or maintained in accordance with the instructions in this manual.
1.3 Safety and Precautionary Measures
WARNING!
Carefully review the following safety limitations and precautions before placing this device in
service.Incorrect use can cause death or serious personal injury.
• Check function (see chapter 4.8 "Function Tests on the Device") each day before use. MSA
recommends carrying out a routine inspection prior to each day's use.
• It is recommended that a Bump Test is performed before each day's use (see chapter 4.9 "Bump
Test") to verify proper device operation. The device must pass the bump test. If it fails the test,
perform a calibration (see chapter 4.10 "Calibration") before using the device.
• The ALTAIR 5X PID Detector is designed to detect gases and vapors in air only.
• Bluetooth Operation is dependent upon signal availability of the wireless service(s) necessary to
maintain the communication link. Loss of wireless signal will prevent communication of alarms and
other information to linked devices. Take appropriate precautions in the event a loss of wireless
signal occurs.
WARNING!
It is very important to have an understanding of PID basics when changing PID settings. Failure to
properly identify the VOC gas being measured and/or failures to select the correct Response Factor
alarm values (exposure, STEL, TWA) that match the desired Response Factor and/or the correct lamp
will result in erroneous readings or erroneous alarm limits that could cause death or serious personal
injury.
• Perform a Bump Test more frequently if the device is subjected to physical shock or high levels of
contaminants. Also, check calibration more frequently if the tested atmosphere contains the
following materials, which may desensitize the combustible gas sensor and/or VOC sensor (PID)
and reduce its readings:
– Organic silicones
– Silicates
– Lead-containing compounds
– Sulfur compound exposures over 200 ppm or exposures over 50 ppm for one minute
– High concentration of VOC gas may affect CO sensor performance
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Safety Regulations
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• The minimum concentration of a combustible gas in air that can ignite is defined as the Lower
Explosive Limit (LEL). A combustible gas reading of XXX indicates the atmosphere is above
100 % LEL, and an explosion hazard exists. Move away from hazardous area immediately.
• Do not use the catalytic or electrochemical sensors to test for combustible or toxic gases in the
following atmospheres as this may result in erroneous readings:
– Oxygen-deficient or oxygen-rich atmospheres
– Reducing atmospheres
– Furnace stacks
– Inert environments
– Atmospheres containing combustible airborne mists/dusts.
• Do not use the catalytic combustible sensor of the ALTAIR 5X PID Multigas Detector to test for
combustible gases in atmospheres containing vapors from liquids with a high flash point (above
38 °C, 100 °F) as this may result in erroneously low readings.
• Allow sufficient time for device to display accurate reading. Response times vary based on the
type of sensor being utilized ( chapter 6.2 "Performance Specification"). Allow a minimum of
1 second per foot (3 seconds per meter) of sample line to allow the sample to be drawn through
the sensors.
• Sampling lines made from 0.062 inch (1.57 mm) inner diameter tubing provide fast transport times
to the device; however, they must be limited to 50 feet (15 m) in length.
• Sampling of reactive toxic gases (Cl
2
, ClO
2
, NH
3
) must only be done with the reactive gas sample
line and probe kits listed in chapter 9 "Ordering Information".
• Sampling lines made from 0.125 inch (3 mm) inner diameter tubing must be limited to 100 feet (30
m) in length.
• All device readings and information must be interpreted by someone trained and qualified in inter-
preting device readings in relation to the specific environment, industrial practice and exposure
limitations.
Observe Proper Battery Maintenance
Use only battery chargers made available by MSA for use with this device; other chargers may damage
the battery pack and the device. Dispose of in accordance with local health and safety regulations.
Be Aware of Environmental Conditions
A number of environmental factors may affect the sensor readings, including changes in pressure,
humidity and temperature. Pressure and humidity changes also affect the amount of oxygen actually
present in the atmosphere.
Be Aware of the Procedures for Handling Electrostatically Sensitive Electronics
The device contains electrostatically sensitive components. Do not open or repair the device without
using appropriate electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. The warranty does not cover damage
caused by electrostatic discharges.
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Safety Regulations
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WARNING!
This is a class A product in accordance with CISPR 22. In a domestic environment, this product may
cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Be Aware of the Warranty Regulations
The warranties made by MSA The Safety Company with respect to the product are voided if the
product is not used and maintained in accordance with the instructions in this manual. Please protect
yourself and others by following them. We encourage our customers to write or call regarding this
equipment prior to use or for any additional information relative to use or service.
Be Aware of the Product Regulations
Follow all relevant national regulations applicable in the country of use.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including any interference that may cause undesired
operation.
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1.4 Warranty
This warranty does not cover filters, fuses, etc. As the battery pack ages, there will be a reduction in
usable device run time. Certain other accessories not specifically listed here may have different
warranty periods. This warranty is valid only if the product is maintained and used in accordance with
Seller's instructions and/or recommendations.
The Seller shall be released from all obligations under this warranty in the event repairs or modifica-
tions are made by persons other than its own or authorized service personnel or if the warranty claim
results from physical abuse or misuse of the product. No agent, employee or representative of the
Seller has any authority to bind the Seller to any affirmation, representation or warranty concerning this
product. Seller makes no warranty concerning components or accessories not manufactured by the
Seller, but will pass on to the Purchaser all warranties of manufacturers of such components.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED OR STATU-
TORY, AND IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO THE TERMS HEREOF. SELLER SPECIFICALLY
DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.
Exclusive Remedy
It is expressly agreed that Purchaser's sole and exclusive remedy for breach of the above warranty, for
any tortious conduct of Seller, or for any other cause of action, shall be the replacement at Seller's
option, of any equipment or parts thereof, which after examination by Seller is proven to be defective.
Replacement equipment and/or parts will be provided at no cost to Purchaser, F.O.B. Seller's Plant.
Failure of Seller to successfully replace any nonconforming equipment or parts shall not cause the
remedy established hereby to fail of its essential purpose.
Exclusion of Consequential Damage
Purchaser specifically understands and agrees that under no circumstances will seller be liable to
purchaser for economic, special, incidental or consequential damages or losses of any kind whatso-
ever, including but not limited to, loss of anticipated profits and any other loss caused by reason of non-
operation of the goods. This exclusion is applicable to claims for breach of warranty, tortious conduct
or any other cause of action against seller.
ITEM WARRANTY PERIOD
Chassis and electronics Three years
XCell COMB, O
2
, H
2
S, CO, SO
2
, NO
2
, and IR sensors Three years
XCell Cl
2
, NH
3
sensors Two years
Series 20 ClO
2
, HCN, NO, NO
2
, PH
3
sensors One year
PID sensors One year
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PID Theory and Definitions
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2 PID Theory and Definitions
To support the safe and effective operation of the ALTAIR 5X PID, MSA believes operators should have
a working knowledge of how the device functions, not just how to make it work. The information
presented in this section supplements the hands-on operational instruction provided in the rest of the
manual for the PID.
PID Theory
A photoionization detector (PID) uses an ultraviolet lamp to ionize the compound of interest. A current
is produced in proportion to the concentration of the VOC present, and the concentration of the
compound is shown on the device display.
Fig. 1 Typical photoionization sensor design
Zero Gas
Zero gas is a reference gas used during calibration to zero the device. When a zero gas with no hydro-
carbon content is introduced to the device, the detector will still respond with a small signal. This signal
is a result of secondary background processes. During calibration, zero gas is applied to quantify the
1 Molecules of Interest 5 Electrodes
2 High energy Vacuum Ultra Violet (VUV) radiation 6 Amplifier
3 UV lamp 7 DC Source
4 Electrodes 8 Microprocessor
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background ionization current.When only measuring concentration changes relative to a reference
ambient environment, fresh air can be used as the zero gas. When background hydrocarbon vapors
are present, MSA recommends using zero gas air.
Span Gas
Span gas is a reference gas used during calibration to determine the slope (response per unit concen-
tration) of the calibrated response curve.
For the 0-2000 ppm PID sensor the only allowable calibration gas is 100 ppm isobutylene.
See Chapter 4.10 "Calibration" for calibration instructions.
Response Factors
When a compound is ionized by photoionization, the ionized molecules are collected and converted to
a current. This response is a characteristic property of the specific compound which is influenced by
its molecular structure. The slope of the response curve (defined in picoamperes per ppm) is different
for different chemicals. To properly report the concentration for a given sample gas, the ALTAIR 5X PID
uses response factors. See Chapter 10 "PID Response Factor Table", for instructions on using the pre-
programmed list of response factors.
WARNING!
It is very important to have an understanding of PID basics when changing PID settings. Failure to
properly identify the VOC gas being measured and/or failures to select the correct Response Factor
alarm values (exposure, STEL, TWA) that match the desired Response Factor and/or the correct lamp
will result in erroneous readings or erroneous alarm limits that could cause death or serious personal
injury.
The response factor is defined as the ratio of the detector response for isobutylene to the detector
response for the sample gas. Response factors for a wide range of substances have been determined
experimentally. These response factors are programmed into the device. Note that the calibrated
response curve, and all programmed response factors are relative to isobutylene. Isobutylene has a
response factor of one.
The response factor is a multiplier that compensates for the difference between the response of the
sample gas and the response of isobutylene at 100ppm. Whenever the device detects the presence
of a VOC, it uses the response factor for the user-assigned target gas to convert the signal to the
correct, concentration. This is done by multiplying the equivalent isobutylene response by the response
factor for the set sample gas. The isobutylene response curve is calculated at every calibration.
If the response factor is known, a device calibrated with isobutylene can be used to calculate the actual
concentration of a target gas.
Calculating a Response Factor
To determine a response factor for a target chemical, perform the following simple procedure:
(1) Calibrate the ALTAIR 5X PID using isobutylene as the span gas.
(2) On the device, set the sample gas name to isobutylene.
(3) Apply a known concentration of the target chemical to the device and note the concentration
reported in the display.
The response factor for the target chemical relative to isobutylene:
RF target gas =
Actual known concentration
Concentration reported by device
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For example:
An operator is using a device that has been calibrated on isobutylene. The sample gas is set to isobu-
tylene. While using this device to sample for hexane, the display reads 100 ppm. Since the response
factor for hexane is 4.5, the actual concentration of hexane is:
Actual hexane concentration = 4.5 x 100 ppm = 450 ppm.
For example:
A device is calibrated on isobutylene, and has isobutylene defined as the sample gas. When sampling
106 ppm of benzene in air, the device reports a concentration of 200 ppm. In this example, the
response factor for benzene relative to isobutylene would be:
When surveying, if benzene is selected as the sample gas in the Response Factor page, 0.53 will be
used by the device as a response factor. The device will use this response factor to automatically
correct the displayed concentration into PPM benzene.A target gas with a response factor between
zero and one implies that the device has a higher detector response for that gas when compared to
isobutylene. If the response factor is greater than one, the device has a lower detector response for
this gas when compared to isobutylene.
WARNING!
It is very important to select the correct lamp setting during PID setup since PID response factors for
a target chemical relative to isobutylene are different depending on what energy PID lamp is installed.
See Chapter 4.5 "Device Setup" for setup instructions. Failure to follow this warning can result in inac-
curate readings that could lead to serious injury or death.
RF benzene =
106 ppm known concentration benzene
=0.53
200 ppm reported
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3 Description
3.1 Overview
The device monitors gases in ambient air and in the workplace.
The ALTAIR 5X PID is available with a maximum of five sensors, which can display readings for six
separate gases (one Two-Tox Sensor provides both CO and H
2
S or CO and NO
2
sensing capabilities
in a single package).
The ALTAIR 5X PID Multigas Detector is only available with a color display.
The alarm levels for the individual gases are factory-set and can be changed through the
Instrument Setup Menu. These changes can also be made through MSA Link Software. Ensure that
the latest version of the MSA Link software has been downloaded from MSA’s website
www.msasafety.com.
It is recommended that after making changes using MSA Link software, the device should be turned
OFF and ON.
Fig. 2 Device view
1
LEDs
2 red "Alarm", 1 green "Safe" and 1 yellow "Fault"
8 IRDA communication port
2Horn 9Pump inlet
3 Display 10 Filter
4
Button 11 RFID tag
5
q
Button 12 Charging port
6
Button 13 Charge Status LED
7 Bluetooth Status LED
1
1
2
3
4
6
5
7
11
8 9
10
12
13
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While the device can detect up to 30 % oxygen in ambient air, it is approved for use only up to 21 %
oxygen.
3.2 Device Hardware Interfaces
Device operation is dialog driven from the display with the aid of the three function buttons
( Fig. 2 "Device view").
The device has three buttons for user operation. Each button can function as a "soft key", as defined
on the display directly above the button.
Button Definitions
When the button and the button are pressed simultaneously while in normal measure mode, the
Setup mode can be entered after the password is confirmed.
LED Definitions
Button Description
q The q button is used to turn the device ON or OFF and to confirm user action selections.
The button is used to page down through data screens or to decrease the values in setup mode.
This button is also used to initiate a Bump Test for the installed sensors, directly from the
MEASURING page.If the user is granted access to the MotionAlert setting feature, this button can
be used to activate the InstantAlert
TM
alarm.
See chapter 4.5 "Device Setup" for the means to allow/disallow user access.
The button is used to reset Peak, STEL, TWA and alarms (where possible) or perform calibra-
tion in measuring mode. It is also used as page up or to increase the values in setup mode.
LED Description
RED (Alarm)
The red alarm LEDs are visual indications of an alarm condition or any type of error in the
device.
GREEN (Safe)
The Safe LED flashes once every 15 seconds to notify the user that the device is ON and
operating under the conditions defined below:
• The green SAFE LED is enabled
• Combustible reading is 0 % LEL or 0 % Vol
• Oxygen (O
2
) reading is 20.8 %
• All other sensor readings are 0 ppm
• No gas alarms are present (low or high)
• Device is not in Low Battery warning or alarm
• STEL and TWA readings are 0 ppm
This option can be turned OFF through the MSA Link software.
YELLOW (Fault)
The Fault LED activates if any of several fault conditions are detected during device oper-
ation. This includes:
• A device memory error
• A sensor determined to be missing or inoperative
• A pump fault
These faults are also indicated by activation of device alarm LEDs, horn, and vibrating
alarm.
BLUE
(Bluetooth Status)
The blue LED is a visual indication of the Bluetooth connection status.
• Off = Bluetooth board OFF or Undiscoverable
• Fast Flash = Discoverable Mode
• Slow Flash = Connected
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®
5X PID
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Description
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3.3 Alarms
The device is equipped with multiple alarms for increased user safety:
Icon Alarm
Vibrating Alarm
The device vibrates when any alarm condition is active. This can be turned OFF
through the SETUP- ALARM OPTIONS menu ( chapter 4.5 "Device Setup").
Horn
The device is equipped with an audible alarm.
The horn can be turned OFF through the SETUP- ALARM OPTIONS menu
( chapter 4.5 "Device Setup").
InstantAlert™
Alarm
The InstantAlert exclusive feature allows the user to manually activate an audible
alarm to alert those nearby to potentially dangerous situations. Holding the
button for approximately 5 seconds while in Normal Measure Mode activates
the InstantAlert alarm. Access to this feature may be restricted by user settings.
See chapter 4.5 "Device Setup" for means to allow/disallow user access.
MotionAlert™
Alarm
If MotionAlert is turned ON ( chapter 4.5 "Device Setup"), the device activates a
"Man Down" alarm if motion is not detected within 30 seconds. The Alarm LEDs
flash, and the horn activates with an increasing audible frequency. MotionAlert is
always turned OFF when the device is turned OFF.
Access to this feature may be restricted by user settings. See chapter 4.5 "Device
Setup" for means to allow/disallow user access.
Stealth Mode
Stealth Mode disables the visual, audible and vibrating alarms. MSA recommends
that this feature be left in its default "OFF" state. Stealth mode can be turned ON
through the SETUP - INSTRUMENT OPTIONS menu ( chapter 4.5 "Device
Setup"). On the display, all three alarm icons are shown as OFF.
Sensor Life
Alarm
The device evaluates the condition of the sensors during Calibration.
As the end of a sensor’s life approaches, a warning is provided. While the sensor
is still fully functional, the warning gives the user time to plan for a replacement
sensor to minimize downtime. The Sensor Life indicator displays during ongoing
operations as a reminder of a sensor’s pending end of life.
When a sensor’s end-of-life is reached, sensor calibration will not be successful,
and the user is then alerted by a Sensor Life Alarm. A flashing Sensor Life
indicator displays during ongoing operations until the sensor is replaced and/or
successfully calibrated.
On the display, each displayed gas will have its own Sensor Life indicator. If a
sensor is in end-of-life warning, its indicator will be an orange . If a sensor has
reached end-of-life, it is in alarm and its Sensor Life indicator will be a continuous
blinking red .
See chapter 4.10 "Calibration" for additional details on Sensor Life determination
and indication.
Backlight
The backlight automatically activates when any front panel button is pressed and
remains ON for the duration of user-selected timeout.
This duration can be changed using the SETUP - INSTRUMENT SETUP
( chapter 4.5 "Device Setup") or through MSA Link software.
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3.4 On-Screen Indicators
Fig. 3 Color display
Operating
Beep
This operating beep activates every 30 seconds by momentarily beeping the horn
and flashing the alarm LEDs under the following conditions:
• Operating beep is enabled
• Device is on normal Measure Gases page
• Device is not in battery warning
• Device is not in gas alarm.
The Operating Beep can be disabled using the SETUP - INSTRUMENT OPTIONS
( chapter 4.5 "Device Setup") or through MSA Link software.
Icon Alarm
1 "Soft Key" Indicator 8 Vibration alarm OFF
2 Gas reading 9
Horn OFF or successful Bump Test/
Calibration Indicator
3 Gas Concentration Units 10 LED OFF
4 Current Time 11 Battery charge level
5 Motion Alert symbol ON 12 Gas Type
6 Bluetooth ON 13 "Soft Key" Indicator
7
Combustible Gas Type/ VOC Gas
Type alternates
(the display switches between each
type every few seconds)
14 Sensor Life Indicator
1
2
3
4
67
89
10
13
14
12
11
5
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5X PID
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Description
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Battery Charge Level Indicator
The battery condition icon continuously displays in the upper right-hand corner of the display. A bar
represents the charging level of the battery.
The nominal run-time of the device (COMB, O
2
, CO, H
2
S, and PID sensor) at room temperature is
12 hours. Actual run-time will vary depending on ambient temperature, battery and alarm conditions.
Low Battery Warning
WARNING!
If battery warning alarm activates while using the device, leave the area immediately as the end of
battery life is approaching. Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.
Fig. 4 Battery Warning
The duration of remaining device operation during a Low Battery Warning depends on ambient
temperatures, battery condition alarm status. Nominal battery life is 30-60 minutes after the Battery
Warning activates.
When the device goes into battery warning the:
• battery life indicator continuously blinks
• alarm sounds and alarm LEDs flash every 30 seconds
• Safe LED no longer flashes
• device continues to operate until it is turned OFF or battery shutdown occurs.
Battery Shut Down
WARNING!
If battery alarm displays, stop using the device as it no longer has enough power to indicate potential
hazards, and persons relying on this product for their safety could sustain serious personal injury or
death.
The device goes into battery shutdown mode 60 seconds before final shutdown (when the batteries
can no longer operate the device):
•"BATTERY ALARM” flashes on the display
• Alarm sounds
• Alarm LEDs flash
• Fault LED is on
• No other pages can be viewed; after approximately one minute, the device automatically turns
OFF.
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Description
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Fig. 5 Battery Shut Down
When battery shutdown condition occurs (shown in Fig. 5):
(4) Leave the area immediately.
(5) Recharge or replace the battery pack.
Battery Charging
WARNING!
Risk of explosion: Do not recharge device in hazardous area.
WARNING!
Use of any charger, other than the charger supplied with the device, may damage or improperly charge
the batteries.
The charger is capable of charging a completely depleted pack in less than six hours in normal, room-
temperature environments.
• Minimum and maximum ambient temperature to charge the device is 10 °C (50 °F) and 35 °C
(95 °F), respectively.
• For best results, charge the device at room temperature 23 °C (73 °F).
To Charge the Device
• Firmly insert the charger connector into the charge port on the back of the device.
• An LED in the battery pack is used to indicate on the charge status.
Red = charging, Green = charged, yellow = fault
• If a problem is detected during charging (LED turns yellow):
Disconnect the charger momentarily to reset the charge cycle.
• The battery pack may be charged separately from the device.
• During periods of non-use, the charger may remain connected to the device/battery pack.
For users in Australia/ New Zealand: The charge cradle is a Class A product. In a
domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which case, the
user may be required to take adequate measures.
Allow very hot or cold devices to stabilize for one hour at room temperature before
attempting to charge.
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3.5 Viewing Additional Pages
The Main Screen appears at device turn-ON.
Additional displays can be viewed by pressing the button to move to the screen as indicated by the
"soft key".
The sequence of pages are as follows and are described below:
The charger must be disconnected for the device to operate.
PEAK * MIN
STEL *
1
TWA *
1
BUMP TEST ?
DATE
LAST CAL
DATE *
CAL DUE
DATE *
MOTION
ALERT
STATUS *
MAIN
MEASURE
PAGE
Advance on
Advance on
* IF ENABLED
1
NOT VALID FOR ALL SENSORS
* 1
DISCOVERY
MODE*
CHANGE
VOC
GAS*?
/
